5 Smart Tips to Create Your Dream Home, From a TikTok Designer

11.08.2024 - 12:31 / thespruce.com / Ashley Chalmers

If you’ve spent any time on design TikTok, then you’ve surely come across interior designer and TikTok creator Julie Jones.

This California-based interior design pro is known for her approachable and easy-to-follow videos, covering everything from space-planning to room makeovers.

We were thrilled to connect with Jones recently and ask for her key tips for turning our homes into our own dream spaces—and she shared one in particular that completely made us rethink our design plans.

Interior Impressions

Jones says one of the biggest things she wants people to know is that there’s a big difference between designing and decorating—which we didn't realize, until now.

Designing and space planning should always take priority, Jones explains, before you layer in your decor. Otherwise, you run the risk of adding extra things into a space that isn’t well mapped out, and that can easily lead to a visual mess.

“If we’re just talking aesthetics, this should come after nailing down our needs,” Jones tells us. “Then the decor is all down to personal preference.”

Don’t let space planning intimidate you—Jones assures us it’s not difficult at all. While there are free online programs that can help, all you need is some graph paper, a pencil, and a tape measure. 

“Treat every square as a foot and start drawing,” Jones says. “Draw the bed shape on one wall with the nightstands. Then try it on another wall, and another wall. Assess where it works and doesn’t work.”

Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more!

Becca Interiors

Once your room is mapped out, Jones suggests a style quiz to help you get started with your decor plans.

There are many to be found